When asking yourself about something to do near me in Ann Arbor with a group of friends or family, consider
Racquet Club of Ann Arbor
Why Racquet Club of Ann Arbor is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Racquet Club of Ann Arbor is a vibrant, member-owned seasonal club nestled in the scenic Ann Arbor Hills between Gallup Park and Huron Hills Golf Course. Spanning over eight beautifully landscaped acres, it offers a welcoming and dynamic setting for friends and families to gather, stay active, and enjoy quality time together. The club boasts 12 tennis courts—eight hard courts and four Har-Tru clay courts—catering to all levels of tennis enthusiasts with clinics, private lessons, and organized play led by professional staff. Beyond tennis, there is an impressive aquatic facility featuring an 11-lane heated lap pool with diving boards and a separate children's pool with playful water features, making it ideal for swimmers of all ages. Families appreciate the thoughtfully designed kids' play area, including a playground, sandbox, and basketball courts tailored for both youngsters and adults. The club’s historic charm is highlighted by an original horse barn dating back to 1883, enriching the ambiance for members. Operating throughout the warmer months, with extended hours during peak season, the Racquet Club supports a full range of recreational and social activities, making it an excellent venue to connect with friends and enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle in a community-focused environment.
Here's what people think of Racquet Club of Ann Arbor
As of recent, Racquet Club of Ann Arbor holds a 4.7-star rating based on 44 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight the Racquet Club of Ann Arbor as a top-notch facility with an overall 4.7-star rating based on 44 reviews. Many members commend the club for its well-maintained courts and pools, friendly and professional staff, and the variety of tennis programs that accommodate all ages and skill levels. Positive feedback frequently mentions the encouraging atmosphere and excellent coaching that help members improve their game, along with the family-friendly amenities like the childrens’ pool and play areas that create a welcoming environment for all ages. Several reviews also praise the club's beautiful grounds and the recent aquatics renovations that improved comfort and functionality. On the other hand, some criticisms include the relatively high initiation fee and seasonal nature of the club, which limits year-round access. A few members also note that scheduling courts during peak times can require advance planning due to popularity. Overall, the reviews convey strong satisfaction with the club’s facilities and community spirit, reinforcing its reputation as a premier destination for tennis, swimming, and social engagement in Ann Arbor.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Beth Dixon
Fantastic pool , many clay courts, pickleball, beautiful gardens , great parties and wonderful members. RC has it all.
Cole Heys
I liked it so much that I am going there this summer every day. The food is great and you can feel at home. The lifeguards are all very nice and the tennis courts and grounds are just gorgeous. I could be there all day. The only thing is that the pricing of the food is high.For example, a twisted Ruben sandwich is $14. But other then that, a very beautiful place overall
Lisa DiPonio
This is a great place to feel comfortable and at home. The pool is large, staff is friendly. Kids can be kids, and adults can interact with other adults in an environment that's both safe and fun. There is something for everyone, from toddlers to teens. The snack bar has lots of options, or you can bring your own food or have food delivered. I would go there every day.
Caden Che
Great Pool. Friendly staff, and food was great. This is the place you should be if you want to have fun.
thepurplemage
So good. The staff is so friendly and the pool is so nice; the food is delicious! The only problem is the communal shower.
How to reach Racquet Club of Ann Arbor
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Why Racquet Club of Ann Arbor may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
When considering a perfect venue to gather with friends and family for an active yet relaxing day, the Racquet Club of Ann Arbor stands out as an ideal destination. This club is not just about sports; it is a social hub built on nine acres of beautiful, landscaped grounds, offering an inviting atmosphere where everyone can enjoy themselves. Whether your group seeks energetic competition, leisurely enjoyment by the pool, or recreational socializing, this venue supports all with its impressive amenities and friendly environment. The club’s high rating of 4.7 from 44 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction among members and visitors, attesting to its quality and community spirit. Located between Gallup Park and Ann Arbor Hills Golf Course, the club combines natural scenic beauty with modern facilities, making it a perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. Its informal tenor means that despite having top-tier tennis courts and a state-of-the-art aquatics facility, the atmosphere is laid-back, encouraging members to relax and enjoy time with friends rather than compete formally. Add to this the convenience of a daily snack bar and various planned social activities, the Racquet Club of Ann Arbor becomes a prime choice for those wanting both activity and connection in their gatherings.
What activities are available at the Racquet Club of Ann Arbor?
The Racquet Club of Ann Arbor offers an impressive range of activities suitable for varied interests and ages, making it an excellent venue for group meetups. At the heart of the club are its 12 tennis courts—eight hard courts and four Har-Tru clay courts—which cater to all playing levels from beginners to seasoned players. Tennis enthusiasts can benefit from a professional staff of instructors and team coaches, with options for clinics and organized leagues that foster both skill development and friendly competition. For water lovers, the club features a state-of-the-art aquatics facility, including a heated lap pool with diving boards, perfect for swimming laps, casual splashing, or watching kids have fun. Swim clinics and swim teams also provide structured opportunities for all ages to engage with the sport. Beyond tennis and swimming, the club’s locker rooms and lounge areas offer comfortable spaces to relax and refresh, while the on-site Pro-Shop supplies equipment and apparel for convenience. The club hosts social gatherings and seasonal parties, creating ample opportunities for members to mingle, unwind, and deepen friendships, making each visit more than just a workout—it is a vibrant social experience.
Why is the Racquet Club perfect for a group meetup?
The Racquet Club of Ann Arbor is designed with members’ social needs in mind, making it an excellent place for group meetups. Its expansive nine-acre grounds provide ample space for groups to spread out and engage in various activities simultaneously without feeling cramped. The mix of indoor and outdoor lounge areas ensures that no matter the weather, groups can congregate comfortably. For families, the club provides child-friendly facilities such as specially designed toilets and sinks, allowing parents to enjoy the club’s amenities with peace of mind. The informal atmosphere promotes camaraderie, where players can casually challenge friends to a match or gather around the poolside for conversations and refreshments. The daily open snack bar adds convenience, feeding groups with a variety of tasty options without the hassle of leaving the club premises. Additionally, the Racquet Club organizes periodic events and parties tailored for members, further enhancing the group experience with opportunities for organized fun and celebration. All these features combined create an environment that encourages socialization, enjoyment, and shared memories, perfectly suited to a day out with friends or family.
What modern facilities enhance the comfort and experience at the Racquet Club of Ann Arbor?
Beyond its outstanding sports facilities, the Racquet Club of Ann Arbor has invested in modernizing its campus to elevate members’ comfort and convenience. Recent renovations have included a fully renovated pool building and locker rooms equipped with upgraded amenities such as grooming products and towels, which add a touch of luxury to everyday visits. Accessibility has been a focus as well, with grade changes and barrier-free requirements ensuring the club is welcoming to all guests, including those with mobility needs. The new single-story tennis building features modern facilities and indoor and outdoor lounge areas, affording members comfortable spaces to relax before or after matches. Efforts to make the campus more energy efficient reflect the club’s commitment to sustainability, appealing to environmentally conscious members. Furthermore, the improvements in security and access control enhance the overall safety, giving members peace of mind. Whether changing for a swim or storing equipment securely, these thoughtful updates contribute significantly to a superior and hassle-free club experience, making it even more attractive for hosting social gatherings.
How does membership at the Racquet Club of Ann Arbor work, and why is it worth it for your group?
Membership at the Racquet Club of Ann Arbor is selective and maintained at a static number per season, which helps preserve the club’s close-knit community feel and high-quality experience. New memberships are offered annually in the spring and are granted in the order of application receipt, with a current wait time that can reach up to three years. This exclusivity adds a level of prestige and assurance that the club’s facilities and atmosphere will not become overcrowded. For 2025, new members face an initiation fee and seasonal dues, with family memberships allowing two adults and children to fully access all tennis, swim, and social activities. The investment offers tremendous value for groups seeking an environment tailored to both athletic and social pursuits. The access to professional coaching and clinics supports continual improvement and active engagement, while the various organized social events and informal opportunities for leisure foster strong bonds among members. For groups planning regular meetups, this membership model ensures a welcoming, vibrant, and stable community where everyone can partake in memorable shared experiences.
What makes the social scene at the Racquet Club of Ann Arbor stand out?
The Racquet Club of Ann Arbor strikes a unique balance between sport and social engagement, making it much more than just a place to play tennis or swim. The club’s informal tenor means members often relax around the pool, share games with friends, and enjoy casual conversations, which is perfect for those seeking a warm, friendly environment. Seasonal parties and organized events provide structured opportunities for members to connect and celebrate together, enhancing the sense of community. The snack bar, open daily, encourages spontaneous meetups by offering convenient food options that keep groups fueled for the day’s activities. Many groups appreciate the flexible ambiance where socializing flows naturally around athletic pursuits, offering both excitement on the courts and comfort in the lounges. The vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere fosters an inclusive environment ideal for friends and family gatherings, where members can create lasting friendships and enjoy quality time together in a scenic setting.
How does the location and environment contribute to the experience at the Racquet Club of Ann Arbor?
Situated in Ann Arbor Hills between Gallup Park and the Ann Arbor Hills Golf Course, the club’s location offers an idyllic setting that complements its excellent facilities. The landscaped grounds spanning nine acres provide a lush, serene backdrop, ideal for relaxation and social interaction. Natural beauty surrounds the tennis courts and pool areas, enhancing the overall experience with pleasant views and fresh air. The proximity to other recreational spaces adds to the club’s appeal, making it part of a larger community of outdoor enjoyment. The peaceful environment makes it easy for groups to escape the hustle of daily life and immerse themselves in leisure and sports. This harmonious blend of location, landscaping, and amenities creates a unique atmosphere that invites members to rally, unwind, and celebrate together in comfort and style. The club’s peaceful yet active environment is perfect for both energetic rallies on the courts and tranquil breaks by the poolside with friends or family.